Croskey took big leap as senior

CBA defensive star had a breakout year on offense to land spot with UAlbany

Published 10:48 pm, Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Colonie

The journey getting from being a good high school football player to an exceptional one was a long one for Christian Brothers Academy senior running back Elliott Croskey, yet his trip into the college football ranks took him just five miles away from the CBA campus.

Croskey has accepted a full scholarship to be part of new coach Greg Gattuso's first recruiting class at the University at Albany, a member of the Football Championship Subdivision playing in the Colonial Athletic Association.

"I'm very excited about my decision," Croskey said.

The Great Danes finished 1-11 overall and 0-8 in the CAA in coach Bob Ford's final season with the program he started.

Croskey, the 2013 Times Union Large-School Offensive Player of the Year, selected UAlbany over such schools as 2013 FCS finalist Towson, Rhode Island and Maine. He is the only player among the 20 in Gattuso's first class, plus two spring-semester transfers, that is a running back.

"The work I put in running track really paid off for me. I was determined to become a better running back," Croskey said.

Entering his season campaign, Croskey was more known for his prowess as a pass rusher at defensive end than for his ability at running back.

That changed in 2013 as Croskey rushed for 1,553 yards and scored 20 touchdowns (18 rushing) to lead the Brothers to their first Section II Class AA title since 2006. CBA beat Shaker 13-8 for the championship at Bob Ford Field.

"Elliott really had a breakout year as a senior," CBA coach Joe Burke said. "He really wanted to excel on the offensive side of the ball as well. Being offered a full athletic from the University at Albany is a gift for him and his family."

Croskey said the proximity to home influenced his decision to select UAlbany. The 6-foot, 205-pound senior, who plans to major in business, was first recruited by Ford and his staff during his senior season.

"It was a little bit disconcerting when I found out Coach Ford and his staff would not be returning," Croskey said. "After I met with the new coaching staff, I realized it still was the best place for me."

"The new staff saw his abilities and believe he can make an impact in the CAA," Burke said.